Impact of APL

The APL and UCL’s engineering education offer will combine to create:

A world-leading hub for technology-led research into alternative propulsion systems, including battery, fuel cell and combustion technologies, at a scale which translates lab activities to the real world.

New solutions to the pressing national and global challenges of air quality and decarbonisation, establishing the UK as a leader in the international development of electric vehicles.

More detailed assessments of the sustainability of electrochemical devices, including the sourcing of raw materials, processes for effective operation, second life and disposal, with the objective of creating quality standards and best practice towards a circular life-cycle in a rapidly growing industry.

An exemplar of research-led teaching: the APL will train the next generation of propulsion scientists and engineers internationally, providing a pipeline of talented PhD applicants.

New programmes will create innovative entry routes, including Foundation programmes (supporting ambitions to genuinely widen participation) and a range of relevant Master’s courses.

A crucial component of the UK’s Olympic and Paralympic legacy and long-term regeneration. As well as a hydrogen hub, the APL will provide a base for public outreach and engagement and student demonstration programmes (including UCell, Solar Fox and Formula Student) that will allow expansion of activity with a particular focus on schools and public engagement.

A pipeline of translational activities with commercial partners and an incubator environment to support the unique UCL ‘spirit of enterprise’ expanding the Innovation Lab concept which has been highly successful in Bloomsbury. This provides a focal point for development of new IP as well as for industry engagement with the APL activity.

An international hub for multidisciplinary research collaboration, partnering with leading international laboratories (including NASA, JCESR, KIER, Dalian) and engaging labs in developing economies (building on existing partnerships in Kazakhstan, India and with Hydrogen South Africa) and supporting the growth of academic research programmes in developing economies.